November 19, 2012 (Vernon, B.C.) – With 25 centimetres of snow in the village and 40 centimetres at higher elevations Silver Star Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake will open this Friday, Nov. 16. Twenty kilometres of upper trails (Putnam trails) will be opened on Friday.
With the dual area pass and its new partnership, Silver Star Mountain Resort and the Sovereign Lake Nordic Club provides cross-country enthusiasts access to more than 105 km of some of North America’s best Nordic skiing.
“For the first time in Silver Star’s history, we’ll be co-hosting Canada’s longest running early season camp. Skiers across Canada and the U.S. have come to trust our early snow and excellent coaching to start off their season,” says Guy Paulsen, Nordic Manager at Silver Star Mountain Resort.
Registrations are flowing in for the 2012 Cross-Country Supercamps, which begins on November 19. Five-day camps run November 19 to 23 and November 26 to 30. Weekend camps include a biathlon option to experience shooting on skis. Skiers can register here.
For 2012 Supercamp participants looking for accommodations can take advantage of early opening packages. Guests reserving before November 18 will save 35 per cent on lift tickets and lodging mid-week and 25 per cent on weekends. Silver Star is offering 35% off early bookings extending to February 8th 2013. Early booking savings at Silver Star include: Full details on Early Booking packages here.
Named by Forbes Magazine as the No. 1 Nordic destination in North America, Silver Star – Sovereign Lake is world renowned for its cross-country skiing facilities and is a training ground for some of the best racers in the world. The first of the international competitions is set for December 8 and 9. Sovereign Lake, near Vernon B.C., will host the Teck BC Cup 1 and the Haywood NorAm, with elite and developing skiers from Canada competing head-to-head against the U.S.
Full cross-country access is also a feature of the new My1Pass, Canada’s first all-inclusive season pass and day ticket. With My1Pass, alpine day ticket and season pass holders will have free unlimited access to 115 downhill trails, 55 kilometers of Nordic trails, 16 km of mapped and marked snowshoe trails, Tube Town Adventure Park, and outdoor skating on Brewer’s Pond.
November 19, 2012 (Fairbanks, AK) – The Alaska Nanooks wrapped up a solid three-day weekend of skiing competition in winning fashion as they completed a sweep of Alaska Anchorage on their way to capturing the 2012 Nordic Cup. The Nanooks have won the title that pairs the Alaska schools against one another six times in the Cup’s nine-year history (6-2-1).
“The Seawolves are a good team and it was quite a thrill to beat them on our home course at Birch Hill,” head coach Scott Jerome said. “Losing in Anchorage last year left a bad taste in our mouths and I am very happy we were able to bring the cup back home.”
UAA had the top finishers in the men’s and women’s 10 kilometer freestyle technique races on Sunday at Birch Hill, but the Nanooks depth prevailed as they outscored the visitors 12-9 in both the men’s and women’s races, for a 24-18 win on the day. The Day Three victory gave the Nanooks a 78-48 margin of victory over the three-day Nordic Cup series.
“I am proud of the way the team members handled themselves this weekend; it was cold and windy but everyone stepped up without complaint and raced,” Jerome said. “This win was a true team effort – five different men and five different women scored points for us.”
For the women, UAA’s Marine Dusser posted the best course time in 33 minutes and 49.6 seconds. Alaska senior Raphaela Sieber (Business Administration) was second in 34:05.1 and was followed by teammates Alyson McPhetres (35:09.6/Geological Engineering) and Heather Edic (35:35.6/Civil Engineering) in third and fourth, respectively.
The Seawolves scoring team included Patricia Sprecher in 5th (36:10.3) and Karina Smith in 10th (37:54.0) overall.
Although not counted in the team standings, Alaska also got top-10 finishes from Crystal Pitney (6th, 36:20.0/Business Administration), Rebecca Konieczny (7th, 36:50.0/Biological Sciences), Julia Ebner (8th, 37:15.1/General Studies) and Marit Rjabov (9th, 37:33.3/Psychology).
For the men’s race, Seawolf Viktor Braennmark was the best on the day in 28 minutes and five seconds, beatting senior Lex Treinen (2nd, 28:13.0/Northern Studies) by eight seconds for the day’s title.
Logan Hanneman (Mechanical Engineering) managed a spot on the podium for the third straight day, taking third overall in 28:31.4.
While it didn’t play into the final standings, one of the more exciting points of the pursuit race came when Nanook senior Ian Wilkinson (Art) outsprinted UAA’s Lukas Ebner down the stretch to put 13.2 seconds between them in the bid for fifth place. Wilkinson finished in 28:32.8, while Ebner had a course time of 28:46.0.
The Blue and Gold had two other racers in the top 10 with Max Olex (Northern Studies) taking 6th in 28:50.2 and Stefan Hajdukovich (Biological Sciences) landing 10th in 29:38.1.
“We had some very good individual results this weekend, and we had some disappointing results, but this is a sport that takes time,” Jerome said. “It’s a long season and we have much hard work to do before March. I am very happy that we beat UAA. Now we must turn our attention to qualifying for NCAAs and turning in our best performances in March.”
Both teams will train for the next seven weeks before their next competition, the U.S. Cross Country Skiing Nationals being held in Midway, Utah, Jan. 2-8, 2013.
November 09, 2012 (Vernon, BC) – Despite recent warm temperatures, Silver Star Mountain Resort is tracking for its scheduled early season opening third week of November, 2012. Over 40 cm of snow have fallen in the two weeks setting up the trail conditions for an early season for the resort and the neighboring Sovereign Lake Nordic Club. The partnership between the two provides cross-country enthusiasts access to more than 105 km of some of North America’s best Nordic skiing.
“We’re excited about the upcoming season and our renewed partnership with Sovereign Lake,” says Guy Paulsen, Nordic Manager at Silver Star Mountain Resort. “For the first time in Silver Star’s history, we’ll be co-hosting Canada’s longest running early season camp. Skiers across Canada and the U.S. have come to trust our early snow and excellent coaching to start off their season.”
Registrations are flowing in for the 2012 Cross-Country Supercamps, which begin on November 19. Five-day camps run November 19 to 23 and November 26 to 30. Weekend camps will run the last two weekends of the month and all camps include a biathlon option and the opportunity to experience shooting on skis.
The camp agenda also includes a relaxing afternoon at the neighboring Sparkling Hill Resort, the only European spa of its kind in North America, where campers will have access to seven unique aromatherapy sauna and steam rooms and a hydrotherapy pool. The evening will finish with a five-star dining experience overlooking Lake Okanagan.
In addition to the dual area pass, full cross-country access is also a feature of the new My1Pass. In honour of its 10 millionth skier visit, Silver Star Mountain Resort introduced Canada’s first all-inclusive season pass and day ticket. With the My1Pass, alpine day ticket and season pass holders will have free unlimited access to 115 downhill trails, 55 kilometers of Nordic trails, 16 km of mapped and marked snowshoe trails, Tube Town Adventure Park, and outdoor skating on Brewer’s Pond.
Silver Star – Sovereign Lake are world renowned for its cross-country skiing facilities and is a training ground for some of the best racers in the world. The first of the international competitions is set for December 8 and 9. Sovereign Lake, near Vernon B.C., will host both the Teck BC Cup 1 and the second of the Haywood NorAm Race Series, with elite and developing skiers from Canada competing head-to-head with guests from the U.S. The Teck BC Cup Series is the premier race series in British Columbia.
For reservations and to register for the 2012 Cross-Country Supercamps, call 1-800-663-4431 or visit www.skisilverstar.com.
November 09, 2012 (Craftsbury, VT) – As of the beginning of this month, you can reserve your spot in the biggest ski race in the east: the 32nd annual TD Bank Craftsbury Marathon! Choose between 25 and 50k options – either way you’ll enjoy some of the most scenic skiing in New England as you traverse the picturesque working landscape from Greensboro to Craftsbury Common, Vermont. Register now HERE. In addition to assuring your spot, you’ll also be signed up for only $60 ($30 for students!). Save your money for fast waxes, new skis or an annual membership at Craftsbury!
BKLers Ski the Marathon for $5
For the second year, BKL skiers (grade 8 and younger) can ski the Marathon with a full paying adult for only $5! Make some great winter memories together at Craftsbury this February! More pricing information HERE.
Stay in the know about our snow
In addition to our snow report, live weather station (now with field and forest versions), we’ve branched out into social media. Follow us on Twitter or our new Facebook page. All are great ways to keep tabs on what’s happening at the Center!
Snowmaking has started
Our permit to blow snow begins November 1, and we’ve begun stockpiling in earnest in the past several days. Currently Mt. Craftsbury is starting to really stack up, with around 20 feet through this morning. We’re going to keep at it grabbing what opportunities we can, with the intention of opening for Thanksgiving week. Find out more HERE.
Craftsbury Opener, November 24
Come put that early season snow to good use with our 10/15k Craftsbury Opener. You can burn off the turkey dinner with courses for all ages from BKL to Masters, 2k to 15k. Details HERE.
Early Season Tuneup: NENSA Masters Clinic at Craftsbury, November 24
After your race, stick around and start the year off on the right foot with technical expertise from NENSA coaches. Only $30 for NENSA members, you’ll get your on-snow time underway the right way. Find out more on NENSA’s website HERE.
Annual Membership at Craftsbury
Q: What costs between $25 and $100, gets you a year’s worth of trail access, FREE member events, access to year round programming, and much more?
A: An annual membership to Craftsbury!
Even if one puts aside all the other value, just the skiing alone is a great bargain: 105k of groomed trails patrolled by two PistenBullys and some of the best, most consistent snow in the east. Come train on the trails that you’ll be racing on in January. Go HERE for the full scoop.
Marathon Sponsor Profile: TD Bank
Our title sponsor, TD Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the United States, and provides customers with a full range of financial products and services at more than 1,300 convenient locations from Maine to Florida. Just as important to the ski community is TD Bank’s long-time support of skiing at all levels: from the USSA and U.S. Biathlon to the development projects of NENSA. They’re huge contributors to our sport and deserve your consideration when you’re looking for a bank. Read more HERE.
November 09, 2012 (Toronto, ON) – The Toronto Bicycling Network (TBN) Cross Country Ski program is aimed at the recreational skier, so come on out and participate in this wonderfully invigorating winter activity. Some of the trips offer a snowshoe option as well.
You will travel in a warm and comfortable coach in which you can relax, forget about the driving, and meet other skiers. Whether you are a long-time TBN member, or a newcomer, come out and join us!
– Sun., Dec. 30, 2012 – Hardwood Hills
– Sat., Jan. 5, 2013 – Horseshoe Valley Resort
– Sun., Jan. 13 – Wasaga Nordic, Wasaga Beach Provincial Park
– Sun., Jan. 20 – Mansfield Outdoor Centre
– Sat., Jan. 26 – Highland Nordic
– Sat., Feb. 2 – Horseshoe Valley Resort
– Sun., Feb. 10 – Wasaga Nordic, Wasaga Provincial Park
– Sun., Feb. 24 – Mansfield Outdoor Center
– Sat., Mar. 2 – Horseshoe Valley Resort
– Sun., Mar. 10 – Hardwood Hills
– Sat., Mar. 18 – Highlands Nordic
Sat. Pickups: Victoria Park 8:00 AM; Yonge/York Mills 8:20 AM; Hwy 400/Major MacKenzie Carpool 8:40 AM.
Sun. Pickups: Victoria Park TTC lot on Victoria Park at Denton Ave. 8:00 AM; Yonge and Asquith Ave, Metro Library 8:20 AM; Yonge/Eglinton in front of Tim Hortons 8:30 AM; Yonge/York Mills TTC 8:40 AM, Hwy 400/Major Mac Carpool 9:00 AM.
Two special geteway weekend trips are also planned, with transportation arranged via car pool
– Feb. 8-10 – Wanakita Resort Ski Weekend
– Feb. 15-18 – Arrowhead Provincial Park Ski Weekend
November 08, 2012 – The TD Bank Marathon Series is comprised of five cross country skiing events across New England with distances ranging from 21k to 50k. Skiers of all skill levels are invited to participate; these events are fun for the elite racer as well as the recreational touring skier. Come and enjoy some of the finest skiing in New England!
Join in the TD Bank NENSA Marathon Series and test your endurance! Those skiers who participate in the timed class of 4 out of 5 events will receive a special Marathon Challenger Award! It doesn’t matter what distance you ski, just that you get out to enjoy these events. Awards will be presented at the Sugarloaf Ski Marathon in March. Hope to see you out there!
To see information about the five events in the series, click HERE.
November 08, 2012 – There are only 16 days left until the start of the FIS Cross-Country World Cup in Gällivare, Sweden. Russia’s 24 athletes are going to take part in the opening ladies and men competitions.
The ladies’ part of the Russian Cross-Country team travelled to Europe already and has trained in Muonio, Finland. “All the athletes are healthy and we train as planned,” head coaches Gregor Menshenin and Dmitry Bugaev say. Russian skiers have been on snow already a month as they carried out a training camp in Ramsau.
Sprinters in Yakutia
Russian sprint specialists carried out the first winter training camp of the season in Aldan ,Yakutia region. The sprinters took part in a show competition that was organised at the opening of the new skiing centre in Aldan. The 85-long super sprint was won by Olympic Champion from 2010 Nikita Kriukov. “Unfortunately Alexey Petukhov and Anton Gafarov could not take part in the competition. Alexey has been recovering from illness and Anton has had small issues with his back. So we did not want to risk anything,” sprint coach Mikhail Deviatiarov said.
November 07, 2012 – Athletes, coaches, and parents who see what an amazing sport Nordic Combined is, and know (or are learning) how much of an undertaking it is to become a World Class skier, you are the American Nordic Combined family. You are all invested in the success of American Nordic Combined, both today and in the years to come.
You all know the story, our top athletes are well funded, our developing athletes receive little to none. Who knows what the funding picture will look like in the years to come?
There are just under two weeks remaining in the Drive for 25 (D25) fundraiser. To those of you have gotten involved by signing up as a D25 Ambassador and reaching out to others and/or by donating yourself. Thank you!
Those who have not, American Nordic Combined needs your help.
A group of people who see the need and potential of American Nordic Combined skiing have come together and pooled $15,000 to match up to $15,000, dollar for dollar, during the final 2 weeks of the Drive for 25 (November 15th).
We have less than two weeks to make this happen and to do it we need you all involved.
If you already have a page set up, keep/start spreading the message.
Nordic Combined Matching Grant
A match is on the table for Nordic Combined!
A group of people who see the need and potential of American Nordic Combined skiing have come together and pooled $15,000 to match up to $15,000, dollar for dollar, during the final 2 weeks of the Drive for 25 (November 15th)
Let’s leverage this challenge into $30,000 to support our developing American Nordic Combined athletes to make sure they will have the opportunities they need to build upon the success that Billy, Johnny, Todd, and Bryan have put together.
We can make this happen.
To donate today and take advantage of this opportunity click HERE.
Adam Loomis Insights
My progress from an aspiring junior athlete to a US Ski Team athlete has been directly enabled by the NNF. A few years ago, US Nordic Combiners were either supported by the US Ski Team, or not financially supported at all. Now, as the Ski Team isn’t able to fund all of its athletes and developing athletes, the NNF is stepping in to help cover costs. This branch of funding creates a bridge for athletes to continue past high school towards the A-team level.
After high school I spent two years training in Steamboat Springs, CO. Last year, I was a member of the National Training Group (NTG). The NTG benefits from coaching and training with the USST, but isn’t funded financially. As a NTG member, I spent a month training in Europe in August and traveled to Europe to compete twice in the winter. We also competed in Chicago, Lake Placid, Park City and Whistler, BC last season. It’s easy to see that this kind of travel schedule would be nearly impossible to afford without some sort of outside financial support. This where is where the NNF made all the difference, chipping in to make these trips feasible.
This year, as a member of the US Ski Team, many costs, like coaching are covered. Our European training camps this winter and the upcoming competitions of this winter, however, are not all paid for by the Ski Team. As the NNF continues to grow, we are able to cover more of these costs. I cannot stress enough how beneficial the NNF’s fundraising has been to my career, and it’s equally vital to the entire sport. Someday, I hope that we have the financial resources to cover equipment, coaching and travel costs for all National level Nordic Combined athletes. A huge part of this is the greater community reaching out and supporting its athletes. This support has been awesome to see, and I hope it continues to grow in the future.
There are less that 2 weeks to go in the Drive for 25. The support our athletes has seen so far has been unbelievable but we still have so much to do and to provide our athletes with the support they need to make their and our American Nordic dreams a reality.
Swag for Ambassadors
We have some amazing gear to give away to our top Ambassadors from our sponsors. U23 and Junior Ambassadors who raise $100 will receive a NNF buff from Podiumwear. Ambassadors who rase $250 will receive a NNF headband by Mt. Borah.
Mission
The mission of the National Nordic Foundation (NNF) is to provide support for the athlete development pipeline of US Cross Country and Nordic Combined skiing. The NNF accomplishes this development goal through raising funds and distribution to our “Pillar Projects” that serve the next generation of athletes who represent the United States on the World Stage.
The NNF is a not-for-profit foundation that serves it’s mission to provide funding and support for key Pillar Projects in the Nordic Community.
November 07, 2012 – Here is the latest news from FIS, including an update on the 2016 Youth Olympic Games, announcement of a mascot contest for the Falun 2015 World Championships, a skiing history exhibition in Val di Fiemme, decisions from the recent FIS Council Meeting in Oberhofen, Switzerland, and a progress update about ski jumping in Romania.
Lillehammer 2016 Youth Olympic Games off to a flying start
The first visit of the International Olympic Committee’s Coordination for the second Winter Youth Olympic Games wrapped up on 26th October 2012 in Lillehammer (NOR).
Chaired by IOC member Angela Ruggiero, the Commission was impressed with the early progress made by the Lillehammer Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee since the city won the bid in December 2011 and the strong government and National Olympic Committee support pledged from the outset.
The shared vision of the three parties aims to engage as many young people as possible locally and abroad in the Games. It will also act as a catalyst for change in the development of youth sport nationwide before, during and long after the Games conclude.
During the meeting, the Coordination Commission visited all the venues that will be used to host the seven sports that currently make up the YOG Programme.
The majority of these venues were built for the 1994 Olympic Winter Games, thereby extending the legacies of those Games. One of the few venues to be built from scratch for the 2016 YOG will be the Youth Olympic Village, which will house the athletes and be the site of all the Culture and Education Programme activities.
Commission chair Ruggerio concluded: “We have full belief in Lillehammer to not only deliver a successful Games, but also leave a legacy for youth sport development long after the Games have terminated.”
Falun 2015 has launched mascot competition
How should the official mascot of the 2015 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Falun look like? The Swedish Organisers have recently rolled out a mascot competition inviting people from all age groups to design the official Falun 2015 mascot.
“The purpose of the mascot competition, apart from creating a buzz about the Championships, is to gather ideas from the general public to be able to create a popular symbol for Falun and the World Championships. The mascot has to work in a wide variety of settings – from printed materials to films and the homepage as well as cheerleading the crowds in the stadium”, said Kent Lövgren, Marketing Director of the 2015 Nordic World Ski Championships in Falun.
Anybody who is interested can enter his/her very best ideas by uploading a photograph or scan including a mascot name to www.beyondskiing2015.com/maskot. The competition will remain open until 15th December 2012.
During the autumn, the general public will be able to vote for the best of the approved proposals shown on the homepage. After that, a jury will be taking on the job of selecting the final mascot. The new mascot will then be introduced during the summer and autumn of 2013 and in 2014, in conjunction with the World Cup competitions that will also serve as World Championship test events.
It’s all about Skiing – “Ski History” exhibition officially opened in Val di Fiemme
In conjunction with the Forum Nordicum held in Val di Fiemme (ITA) on 16th October 2012, a “Ski Past” exhibition has officially been inaugurated in the presence of 100 participants at Le Gallerie space in Trento.
During the opening ceremony FIS President Gian Franco Kasper underlined the significance of “keeping memories alive and strong”.
Mountain equipment, historical objects and various items related to sport and winter activities such as boots, skis, poles and clothing are telling the story that has characterized the region of Trento over the past century. High-tech video installations, pictures, medals and trophies as well as a detailed time-line from the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924 in Chamonix (FRA) until the 2013 Nordic World Ski Championships in Val di Fiemme (ITA) are fully covering the exhibition space.
Decisions from the FIS Council Meeting in Oberhofen
The FIS Council traditionally held its Autumn Meeting at the FIS Office in Oberhofen (SUI) on Saturday 3rd November and dealt with a full agenda, including reports from Organising Committees for future FIS World Championships, the appointment of technical officials as well as proposals from the FIS Technical Committees with calendar updates and a number of rules.
Click HERE to see the main decisions of the FIS Council.
Final inspections before the season – Romania reaches a milestone in Ski Jumping
Among numerous inspections carried out before the season in the different FIS Olympic disciplines, FIS Ski Jumping Race Director Walter Hofer recently met with representatives of the Romanian Ski Association. The visit focusing on the new jumping hills was held in conjunction with the Romanian International Championships on 27th-28th October 2012 in Rasnov.
“Staging an international Ski Jumping competition in Romania might sound rather unusual and it actually is. But already a view on the facility Trambulină Valea Cărbunării in Rasnov has shown, that something was built here that is not mysterious, but the result of years of professional planning”, reported Walter Hofer.
On 19th-20th January 2013, four FIS Cup competitions (2 ladies, 2 men’s) will be held on the new HS 100 hill. The facility originally consisted of three jumping hills for children and young athletes and was completed by two more hills K64 (HS 71) and K 90 (HS 100) in October 2012.
Upon his return, FIS Ski Jumping Race Director Walter Hofer concluded on the positive trends: “Six years ago we did some sort of an appraisal and saw a precarious situation. Just like in some other countries as well, the only possibility for a young Romanian athlete to train was to travel abroad. Since then an amazing development took place at an accelerated pace. In the open national championships (including Bulgaria and Hungary) at the end of October, the fruit of this labour could be seen and Romania is now on its way to establish itself on the international field. One athlete (Dana Haralambie) could even already achieve the personal qualification standard for the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi.”
As a result of a cooperation between the Austrian industrial company OMV and the Romanian Ski Association started in 2007, the construction of the first Ski Jumping centre in Romania and South-Eastern Europe could be launched in 2009 in the city of Rasnov. With the sponsorship of OMV, project leader and Ski Jumping expert Paul Ganzenhuber and former ski jumper Christian Moser (both AUT) have been the driving forces in this development. The goal of the project “OMV Move & Jump” was to give Romanian ski jumpers the chance to score among the top ten of the world within the next ten years.
November 06, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – Biathlon Canada, the national governing body for the sport of biathlon in Canada, is seeking applicants to fill a part time position at the national office in Ottawa. The successful candidate will assist the Executive Director with a number of projects including* but not limited to:
– General administrative functions
– Filling materials and supplies orders
– Web postings and website review
– Assist with production of promotional materials
– Meeting planning and preparation
– Membership registration and club database processes
– Entry level bookkeeping duties as assigned
– Other tasks as assigned
*Please refer to the complete job description for further details
The successful candidate will have the following attributes:
– Post secondary education in Sport Administration, Physical and Health Education, Business or a combination of related education and experience
– The ability to work with a high degree of independence in a fast-paced environment and respond quickly and efficiently to inquiries
– Excellent organization skills and attention to detail
– Good communication skills including the ability to produce polished communication in written and oral form in English (essential) and French (highly desirable)
– Ability to use Microsoft Office software and to learn other systems quickly
– Ability to take direction on assigned projects
– Ability to work as a team player in a volunteer-based organization
– Bilingualism is considered a strong asset
– Knowledge of the sport of biathlon or cross country skiing is considered an asset
– Flexibility to work varying days and hours depending on the workload at the various times of the year
Position: Administrative Assistant
Job Description:
Position: Administrative Assistant (part time contract) Location: Ottawa, Ontario (Biathlon Canada Head Office) Hours: 16-24 hours per week depending on the season (week-day time between 8:30am and 5pm- flexibility required by applicant and flexibility given by employer) Contract Dates: 15 months (January 7, 2013 – March 31, 2014) + training days Rate of Pay: $15-$18/hour (to be determined based on qualifications and experience) Benefits: none
Application Deadline: 16 November, 2012
Starting Date: 2-3 training days between Dec 10-21, 2012
with a formal start date of January 7, 2013.
Applications with a résumé and 3 references will be accepted by email at the address below until Friday, November 16, 2012.
November 06, 2012 (Salt Lake City, UT) – The documentary film Ready To Fly has been awarded “Best Feature-Length Mountain Film” at the prestigious Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival.
Ready To Fly, written and directed by William A. Kerig of Salt Lake City, Utah, follows 2009 World Ski Jumping Champion Lindsey Van and her ski jumping peers as they fight for inclusion in the Olympic Winter Games.
“This is the greatest honor of my filmmaking career and I’m in debt to the entire Ready To Fly team for helping make it happen,” said Kerig, who was in Banff, Alberta on Nov. 4 to receive the award. “We’re thrilled to be recognized among this excellent line-up of mountain films. We hope Lindsey’s story continues to resonate and inspire people around the world to never give up on their dreams.”
Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival started 37 years ago and showcases the world’s best films, books, and photographs on mountain subjects – climbing, culture, environment, wildlife, exploration and adventure, and sport. The 79 films chosen as finalists this year were selected from 370 films entered in competition from 34 countries.
“This was probably the hardest category to judge, but in the end, one film overwhelmed us with its superb storytelling, inspiring characters and – most importantly – had the judges cheering at the finish,” said Banff jury member, Kathryn Bonnici. “The filmmakers spent years following this story, the pacing was spot on, and the images simply beautiful.”
On Oct. 12, Ready To Fly also won “Best Documentary” at the popular Carmel Art & Film Festival. Ready To Fly was released in Salt Lake City in February and test-marketed as part of the 10th anniversary of 2002 Salt Lake Winter Games. It had its World Premiere at the MountainFilm Festival in Telluride, CO in May and has appeared in film festivals this fall throughout the U.S. including the Adventure Film Festival & Tour in Boulder, New Hampshire Film Festival, Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, and Twin Cities Film Festival.
Ready To Fly will screen in two more film festivals this year:
X-Dance Action Sports Film Festival
1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8
Salt Lake City, UT
The Depot, 400 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Tickets HERE.
Whistler Film Festival
12 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2
Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
More info HERE.
November 05, 2012 (Auburn, NH) – Today, Fischer Skis announced it has hired Rick Halling as Nordic promotions and customer service specialist. In the newly created position, Halling will work directly with Peter Ashley, vice president of the Fischer Skis U.S. Nordic Division, to grow and support American sales of the world’s winningest cross country ski and boot manufacturer. Rick brings 30 years of Nordic ski experience to Fischer, having most recently spent 20 years as Nordic product category manager at Atomic.
“We are truly excited to welcome Rick. His passion for the sport, technical insight and rich history working in key markets are just what we need to spur sales growth and popularity of cross country skiing”, said Peter Ashley.
Halling begins at Fischer today and will be based out of the company’s U.S. headquarters in Auburn, N.H. His broad range of responsibilities includes providing support for Fischer’s Nordic sales representatives and dealers as well as Nordic marketing and promotions efforts.
“I look forward to working with Peter to show Americans the new face of cross country skiing. From the technology and innovation that powers world-class athletes to the exercise and overall enjoyment afforded by the sport, Fischer truly offers something for everyone” said Rick. “It’s great to be joining the industry leader and to have this unique opportunity to grow the sport.”
During his 20 years managing Atomic’s Nordic division, Halling managed sales, marketing and racing, and helped turn an obscure Austrian brand into a major Nordic supplier in the U.S. Prior to that Halling sold Nordic equipment at Hanover, N.H., ski retailers Omer & Bob’s Sportshop as well as Art Bennet’s. In addition, he previously managed the Nordic ski retail shop at Royal Gorge in Donner Summit, California, America’s largest cross country ski area. He has also worked at Scandinavian, a Nordic ski retailer in New York City, and worked in various functions at Telemark Resort in Cable, Wisc., home of the American Birkebeiner.
November 02, 2012 – This week on Talkin’ with the Gravy Train, we bring you Part 2 of the interview with the multi-talented and well-known former US star skier and coach, Jim Galanes. Talkin’ with the Gravy Train is a series of audio interviews hosted by famous sports commentator and journalist Peter Graves, that provides a forum for notable Nordic personalities to talk about the sport they love in their own words and express their point of view.
Jim Galanes – A Man For All Seasons Seasons
I have known Jim Galanes since we were both teenagers growing up in Southern Vermont. A truly gifted athlete, he excelled in the Nordic sports and later in cycling. Born in Brattleboro, Vermont, his brilliant ski racing career began with Nordic Combined as the local famed Harris Hill was calling. His prodigious talents and his drive helped him secure a USST berth at the tender age of 17. A member of three US Olympic teams in ’76, ’80 and 1984, Galanes dropped ski jumping to focus on cross-country skiing and turned in many outstanding international performances. A twelve-year member of the U.S. Ski Team he won three national Nordic Combined championships and two World Cups, in addition to ten xc ski national championships.
His interest in coaching led Galanes to head up the US Ski Team from 1986-1992, followed by a stint at Vermont’s SMS leading to his outstanding career at APU from 1995-2006. Considered among the elite of the coaching fraternity, he has worked and coached many of America’s top skiing talents. Recently he moved from Anchorage to Sun Valley where he currently operates Galanes Sports Lab Institute in Ketchum, Idaho, offering a variety of services from coaching, ski trail design, program development and ski products – read more HERE.
November 02, 2012 (Ottawa, ON) – Cross Country Canada has joined other leading national sport organizations in embracing the Club Excellence Program which is helping to build a network of healthy, strong and sustainable sport clubs across Canada.
As an Associate Member, Cross Country Canada now enjoys access to a range of customized tools and resources to improve ski club programs. Targeted workshops will help their clubs become Club Excellence certified, building capacity in a number of critical areas including coaching, people management, governance, recruitment, financial accountability, marketing, and revenue generation.
“After focusing on redesigning our Athlete Development Model, Competition Model and all corresponding programs, it was time to encourage clubs to also proceed with LTAD alignment at the club level and provide tools and incentives to help us achieve the highest possible rate of engagement,” said Stéphane Barrette, Director of Coaching and Athlete Development with Cross Country Canada. “Club Excellence met every requirement we were looking for and more! And it helped that Club Excellence was highly recommended by some of the Sport Canada LTAD expert group members.”
Through the Associate Membership, the Club Excellence program will be available to ski clubs of all levels, focusing on all the characteristics of strong, sound clubs, from management to governance and program delivery. It will also allow Cross Country Canada to provide discounts to their member clubs on Club Excellence services, and gives them a voice in the stewardship of this innovative, standards-based certification program.
Founding Members of the Club Excellence Cooperative (CEC) include Swimming Canada, Speedskating Canada, CanoeKayak Canada, Athletics Canada, Gymnastics Canada, and the True Sport Foundation.
CEC Chair, John Edwards, called today’s announcement an exciting development for the program;
“We are delighted with the addition of another NSO to the Club Excellence program,” he said. “Clubs are the foundation for so many Canadian sports. It’s great to see that Cross Country Canada shares our vision of bringing long-term benefits to sport by improving the quality of community club programs.”
November 01, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – Check out this great compilation of video highlights from the weekend’s Frozen Thunder Classic in Canmore. The video features Canadian and U.S. national team members as they test themselves on “Frozen Thunder”, a course built from snow preserved from the previous winter at the Canmore Nordic Centre. Report and photos from the event HERE.
November 01, 2012 – There are only 24 days left until the 2012/13 FIS Cross-Country World Cup season gets under way and the defending Big Crystal Globe winner Marit Bjoergen looks optimistic towards the winter.
“I’ve done a very good job in the summer and autumn and I cannot wait until the season starts,” she wrote on her website www.maritbjoergen.no.
The multiple Olympic and World Championships medallist says she has trained more than ever. “Every year has made me stronger and my body’s ability to recover has been better,” she claimed.
The Cross-Country season kicks off for Norwegian athletes in Beitostoelen on November 16-18 with the traditional Cross-Country and Biathlon opening. This time, the three days of competitions will be featuring 10/15 km free ladies and men, classical sprint and 10/15 km km classic ladies and men.
“Beitostølen is my favourite place and I enjoy the atmosphere of the national opening,” she revealed.
Cross-Country Skiing fans can still recall unforgettable moments from the last season when Marit Bjoergen and Justyna Kowalczyk challenged each other for the FIS Tour de Ski victory and the Big Crystal Globe.
Also this winter Bjoergen and Kowalczyk are expected to fight for top positions both in the World Cup, FIS Tour de Ski and the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. FIS Cross-Country World Cup season kicks off in Gällivare on November 24-25.
“It will be exciting to meet other skiers at the World Cup opening. Rumours say that Justyna is in a good shape and I am looking forward to meeting her on the World Cup circuit,” said Marit Bjoergen and continued: “Charlotte Kalla visited me in Oslo in the summer and there’s no doubt she will be a strong contender for all the Norwegian girls,” Bjoergen claimed.
November 01, 2012 (Sun Peaks Resort, B.C.) – Cross Country Skiing is the fastest growing segment of business at Sun Peaks Resort, evidenced by an increase in season pass sales, a sold-out nordic camp, a new nordic centre, and a growing nordic club.
“Our Nordic season pass sales are up by 32 per cent so far this winter,” says Phil Youwe, Sun Peaks Resort’s Nordic Coordinator. “And the newly created Sun Peaks Nordic Club is now over 100 members strong with plans for a new Jackrabbit program in January.”
One of four new, early season Nordic Camps (December 8 – 9) has sold out which reflects the growing interest in the sport at Sun Peaks. Guests can join a waitlist as more coaches may be added. Call 250-578-5505 or email nordic@sunpeaksresort.com. A second Sun Peaks Nordic Camp will run on January 19 – 20.
Glenn Bond, an internationally recognized Nordic skier is also hosting two Nordic camps at Sun Peaks Resort this winter (November 26 – 30 and December 1- 2). Go to www.GlennBond.com for more information and to register.
This winter, the new Sun Peaks Nordic Centre will become the focal point for all cross country skiing at Sun Peaks. Located between Parking Lot 5 and the Umbrella Cafe, the building will sell Nordic trail tickets, have a rental and retail space and act as a hub for skiers to warm up, socialize and find information about the trails. The new structure will be headquarters for the popular Nordic Host program and be utilized by the Sun Peaks Nordic Club.
The Centre will be open seven days a week from 8:30am to 4:30pm starting on November 17 with the rental and retail sections opening on December 15 for weekends and extended hours during holidays. The grand opening will take place on December 22.
“This new Nordic Centre was established in response to the surge in Nordic popularity we have seen at Sun Peaks in the last few years,” says Youwe. “We are excited to see it put to good use this winter, starting on November 17.”
Guests can also take part in a Full Moon Nordic Ski every month. Sun Peaks will be hosting The 4th Annual Sun Peaks Kookaburra Cup Nordic Loppet (January 6) as well as Cross Country BC’s newest race, The Annual Holy Cow Nordic Loppet (February 24).
Home to over 30kms of groomed and trackset trails, including one of the region’s only lift accessed Nordic trails, Sun Peaks has continued to evolve into a favourite Nordic skiing destination. The extensive trail network also features an additional 12kms of backcountry trails and the popular McGillivray Lake Outpost.
Nordic Events
– November 26 – 30 – Glenn Bond Monday to Friday Nordic Ski Camp
– December 1 & 2 – Glenn Bond Weekend Nordic Ski Camp
– December 8 & 9 – Sun Peaks Nordic Ski Camp
– December 28 – Full Moon Nordic Ski
– January 6 – 4th Annual Sun Peaks Kookaburra Cup Nordic Loppet
– January 19 & 20 – Sun Peaks Nordic Ski Camp
– January 26 – Full Moon Nordic Ski
– February 24 – Holy Cow Nordic Loppet
– February 25 – Full Moon Nordic Ski
– March 26 – Full Moon Nordic Ski
October 31, 2012 (Park City, UT) – U.S.A. ski jumping National Team member Mike Glasder (Cary, IL) has suffered a work-related injury, which will put the well-known jumper on the USASJ injuried list for an unknown period of time. Glasder, who recently came off from the annual Flaming Leaves event in Lake Placid with a strong third place and has enjoyed a strong summer of good results, was injured, when in his own words… “I was towing things back to a burn pile at work with a quad and the front tire hit some softer dirt which stopped the quad and sent me flying.” Glasder told the USASJ News Bureau he suffered a broken collarbone, which is now in four pieces.
Today Glasder told us of his current medical plans… “I had the options of surgery and letting my collarbone heal on it’s own, and after talking with Dr. Andy Chen (Alpine Clinic) and my doctor at home, I’ve decided to get a plate surgically installed so that my recovery time will be twice as fast. My doctor that will be performing the surgery said that the recovery should take about six weeks, but in my own mind I only see it taking about four weeks before I will get back on snow.”
The well-known Glasder, who has his eye on an Olympic berth for Sochi 2014 said that he is forward looking and expects things to go well. “I figure a little bit after Thanksgiving I will be able to put my skis on and get some good training in. I’m not the least bit worried about losing a step because jumping was going pretty well this Fall and I had some good training jumps at Norge before my injury as well as having really good ideas and mental images in my head at the moment.”
You’ve got to admired his comeback thoughts when he added…”This is just a small delay in my training and having to take a short break now will definitely make me even more excited about the coming Winter season.” Glasder is expected to be operated on Wednesday.
Also on the USASJ rehab list is Andover, NH jumper Nick Fairall, who continues to receive treatment at the Alpine Clinic in Franconia, NH, an official sponsor of the USASJ.
October 29, 2012 – Welcome to a new season of Talkin’ with the Gravy Train where notable Nordic personalities have a forum to talk about the sport they love in their own words and express their point of view. We’d like to thank all of our guests for taking the time to chat with us and our loyal audience for listening. Our first guest this season is the multi-talented and well-known former US star skier and coach, Jim Galanes.
We just realized that the correct Part 1 of this two-part interview was not provided (only about 3min was included) initially when we first posted this interview and we apologize to all readers – the correct version is now linked below.
Jim Galanes – A Man For All Seasons Seasons
I have known Jim Galanes since we were both teenagers growing up in Southern Vermont. A truly gifted athlete, he excelled in the Nordic sports and later in cycling. Born in Brattleboro, Vermont, his brilliant ski racing career began with Nordic Combined as the local famed Harris Hill was calling. His prodigious talents and his drive helped him secure a USST berth at the tender age of 17. A member of three US Olympic teams in ’76, ’80 and 1984, Galanes dropped ski jumping to focus on cross-country skiing and turned in many outstanding international performances. A twelve-year member of the U.S. Ski Team he won three national Nordic Combined championships and two World Cups, in addition to ten xc ski national championships.
His interest in coaching led Galanes to head up the US Ski Team from 1986-1992, followed by a stint at Vermont’s SMS leading to his outstanding career at APU from 1995-2006. Considered among the elite of the coaching fraternity, he has worked and coached many of America’s top skiing talents. Recently he moved from Anchorage to Sun Valley where he currently operates Galanes Sports Lab Institute in Ketchum, Idaho, offering a variety of services from coaching, ski trail design, program development and ski products – read more here.
October 26, 2012 – “It’s been 26 years running that we’ve had early season ski camps on the mountain,” said Guy Paulsen, Nordic Manager at Silver Star Mountain Resort.
For the first time in the history, Canada’s longest running early season cross country ski camp will be co-hosted by the two neighbouring Nordic operators, Silver Star Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre. “We believe by combining the camps, we are bringing the best of both to our skiing guests.” said Guy Paulsen.
As Silver Star Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre prepare to co-host the early season “XC Supercamp” running November 19th to December 2, they are looking back to their respective ski roots on the mountain.
Largest Early Season Trail System
“Skiing on the mountain started in the 1930’s when the pioneer skiers would catch the bus to the end of the road by the school house, which was near the bottom of the hill, then they would ski up the mountain. It was an all-day event,” said Don Wylie of Sovereign Lake. “Back then, you could ski the whole mountain because it was bare. Today we have first class groomed trails to follow and between the two areas we have the largest early season trail system in Western Canada.”
European Spa and 5-Star Dining
We’re really excited about the added features that XC Supercamp can offer that are unique to our area. Campers may spend a relaxing afternoon at Sparkling Hill Resort, the only European spa of it’s kind in North America, where they will have access to seven unique aromatherapy sauna and steam rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and hydrotherapy pool. The evening will finish with a five-star dinning experience overlooking Okanagan Lake.
Popular Biathlon Experience
XC Supercamp is pleased to offer biathlon as an option to the five-day and weekend camps. “It was such a hit at the Sovereign Lake camps last year that we decided to include it in this year’s program,” said Darren Derochie, senior coach at XC Supercamp. “For some it’s something they have never tried before. This allows them the opportunity to experience biathlon. For others, they may have experience shooting, the new experience is doing it on skis.”
Skiers across Canada and the U.S. have come to trust the early season snow and excellent coaching to start their season at Silver Star and Sovereign Lake. “With significant snow on the mountain already, we are on track for our forecasted opening November 9th and possibly sooner.”
October 25, 2012 (Park City, UT) – In an announcement made today by USA Ski Jumping’s CEO Jeff Hastings, two members of the USASJ squad have been elevated to “A” Team membership. Based upon their Grand Prix performances this Summer Peter Frenette (Saranac Lake, NY) and Anders Johnson (Park City, UT) will be named immediately to the top team.
In making the announcement today Hastings–a 1984 U.S.A. Olympian, who was fourth in Sarajevo– said he was delighted by the progress both ski jumpers have made. “Anders and Peter’s performances this Summer and Fall have been really impressive and very much a validation for the program. Their results have provided a great financial boost to the program as USA Ski Jumping is now qualified to have two paid athletes and a coach at every World Cup event this Winter. Having two skiers performing at this level provides an enormous boost to the younger skiers in the U.S.A., as well. They get a picture of what they need to be doing and gain confidence that it’s possible. In a mind game like ski jumping, this kind of contact is critical. You need that first group to break through which breaks a path for others to follow”, Hastings said.
USASJ Athletic Director Alan Johnson said from the USASJ headquarters in Park City, UT today that the pair really stepped it up during the Summer. “Athletes earn a position on the “A” Team by either scoring Grand Prix or World Cup points or a top 10 in an international Continental Cup event. We are very pleased to have two athletes achieve this level in the first period of competition. We are on track with our goals at this point and very excited about the start of the second period in Lillehammer, Norway. These results will go a long way in helping USASJ athletes earn quota spots for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games in Sochi.” U.S. coach Clint Jones will travel with Johnson and Frenette this Winter.
The first FIS World Cup will get underway in Lillehammer, Norway in one month. The U.S.A. squad will assemble in Park City, UT soon for an intensive one-month camp, prior to the start of the competitive season.
October 24, 2012 – Here is the latest newsletter from Worldloppet and the FIS Marathon World Cup. Worldoppet recently attended the Forum Nordicum in Val di Fiemme, and the organization is primed for an exciting 2012/12 season. Read on for all of the details.
Forum Nordicum
Worldloppet present at the Forum Nordicum in Val di Fiemme (ITA) From 15 to 18 October, the annual gathering of all Nordic ski journalists, the FORUM NORDICUM, was held in Val di Fiemme, the host of the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. This meeting brings together Nordic ski journalists, both international federations, the FIS and the IBU, World Cup and other winter sport event organisers, ski companies and other companies, related to Nordic winter sports!
A perfect place to present Worldloppet and its races to a wider audience of interested ski journalists. Not to forget, that it is in Val di Fiemme, more precisely in Predazzo, with a view to the jumping hills, that Worldloppet has its head quarter! Val di Fiemme is also home to Marcialonga, one of the Worldloppet races which functions also as FIS Marathon Cup and which runs from Val di Fassa through to Val di Fiemme with its finish in Cavalese.
Worldloppet’s Secretary General, Angelo Corradini had the pleasure to inform the assembled journalists, that the interest in marathon skiing is still constantly growing.
Almost 126,000 skiers participated last season in Worldloppet races all over the world and the demand is still rising! The Marcialonga, Birkebeinerrennet and the Vasaloppet were all sold out in minutes!!! That the interest is not only high in Europe can be seen in the fact that also the American Birkebeiner is sold out already!!!
This race will be a FIS Marathon Cup this season and has therefore risen the interest of many skiers in the US and Canada to participate in this race with the best in the world doing the same course at the same time (only maybe not in the same time)! The US also still holds first place concerning passport holders (1,633)! They are followed by Germany (1,462) and Italy (1,078).
Last year, Worldloppet could congratulate 242 new Worldloppet Masters. They have completed 10 Worldloppet races in the long distance with at least one race oversees.
After the Worldloppet presentation it was time to give the floor to Gloria Trettel form Marcialonga, who then took a tour through 40 years of Marcialonga and informed about this year’s race. Marcialonga, since the biggest and most famous marathon ski race in Italy, is also very present at the new exhibition “Ski Past” which has just recently been opened in Trento, the capital of the region Trentino.
It is housed in an old street tunnel in Trento, which was converted into an exhibition area a couple of years back. The exhibition, the first one of its kind in Italy, looks on the past of skiing in general and in Italy especially, specially focusing on Nordic skiing. All guests of the Forum Nordicum including the Worldloppet delegation had the unique opportunity to have a sneak preview of the exhibition hence its official opening was scheduled for just a few days later.
One of the ski firms hosting an evening during the Forum Nordicum invited the Aukland brothers to come over and represent their brand. It was a unique opportunity for most of the journalists who normally are present at World Cup events and less at Worldloppet and FIS Marathon Cup races. It is not often that Worldloppet skiers are invited to these evening since normally the interest is higher in World Cup racers.
Another evidence that the interest in Worldloppet and long distance skiing is rising. A lot of interesting questions arose and both, Jörgen and Anders Aukland, showed that they are not only great skiers, but also into marathon skiing with their full heart and great ambassadors for long distance skiing, explaining the gathered journalists the specialty of long distance racing.
Some pictures of the Forum Nordicum can be found on Worldloppet’s Facebook page HERE.
Worldloppet Executive Committee meeting in Cavalese
At the occasion of the Forum Nordicum taking place in Val di Fiemme, Worldloppet’s Executive Committee held its autumn meeting in the same place, enjoying the possibility of taking part in the Forum Nordicum at the same time.
It was a perfect opportunity to spread the word about Worldloppet, market the idea of Worldloppet and marathon skiing and discussing races, development and projects with different persons and parties. The committee discussed several different points and the following was decided: Epp Paal from the Tartu Maraton was appointed new Race Coordinator. She will be present at many FIS Marathon Cup races as well as at several Worldloppet races throughout next season to support the organisers in ensuring the same level of performance (organisation, food stations, track preparation, starting order, result service etc.) at all races.
Epp will bring valuable experience on-site as she has gained solid knowledge working for the Tartu Maraton for more than ten years. In establishing her post, Worldloppet takes a step forward to ensure high quality races at all levels which is very important for the marketing of marathon skiing and the TV production on site. Alongside this topic, the relation and cooperation between Worldloppet and Ski Classics was discussed as well.
Since the Worldloppet Ski Magazine will not be printed this year as decided at the AGM, the online version will soon be available for downloading on the Worldloppet web page. Since this will only be an overview of the most important fact about each race, other possibilities for a magazine were discussed during the meeting. Further inquiries will be made for a printed format and will be presented during the next AGM to all member races.
Another important step for marathon skiing was that the Executive Committee decided to open the gates for more races and here for “exotic” races like the Fossevatn Ski Marathon on Iceland, the Marcha Blanca in Argentina or the Merino Muster in New Zealand. They are now invited to state their interest in joining Worldloppet and to come and present themselves at the next AGM (Annual General Meeting) which will take place in June 2013 in Hayward, USA, hosted by the American Birkebeiner.
New Worldloppet trailer & new Worldloppet web page
During the presentation of Worldloppet and its races, the new Worldloppet trailer had its world debut. It was exclusively shown to the gathered journalists and was very well received. The 3 minute film, put together by Marc Schauberger form the König-Ludwig-Lauf, shows what Worldloppet and its races is all about: About elite racers in the first starting row as well as about all the popular skiers without whom the race wouldn’t be the same! About the challenge against oneself, the skiing together with thousands of others and experiencing most incredible landscapes around the world.
The trailer will soon be available at the Worldloppet Facebook page and on the Worldloppet web page.
And this one will come to you soon in a complete new outfit!! The relaunch of the page is scheduled for before the season kicks off and will include several new features and a FIS Marathon Cup corner which is specially dedicated to the elite racers of the FIS Marathon Cup. All fans will wind it a great source of all kinds of information around their favourite athletes and also journalists will enjoy it for gathering information around this elite cup!
More information on the exact date of the launch will soon be diffused!
Important dates & information
– November 2012: Launch of the new Worldloppet web page
– December 16: La Sgambeda, 42km, FT, First FIS Marathon Cup of the season 2012/13
Worldloppet – The World of Marathon Skiing!!!
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
Never miss an info about the world of marathon skiing. Follow us on Twitter HERE.
October 24, 2012 – Already donated? THANK YOU – it’s just great to see everyone contributing, along with the supportive comments posted on our D25 page.
We’re a grassroots non profit organization that is asking OUR Nordic Community to come together from Alaska to Maine and donate for this cause. So if you feel inclined, please do pass this message on.
Lastly, our Juniors are stepping up to meet a $50k Challenge Grant. They need to raise $10k to get a $50k donation, yup a 5 to 1 match, it’s just a bit better match than your 401k, huh? So far they are at $7k… GO JUNIORS!
October 24, 2012 (Boulder, CO) – The Boulder Nordic Ski Swap will be on Wednesday, November 14, at Boulder High. The doors will open to set up will be at 5:45pm. We are hoping to be cleaned up and out the door no later than 9:30. 15% of the proceeds will go to benefit the Boulder Nordic Junior Racing Team.
October 23, 2012 (Truckee, CA) – The Sierra Nevada is accustomed to long ski seasons. Point in fact, 2011 seemed like it would never end, with an XC ski race held on Fourth of July weekend at Auburn Ski Club on Donner Summit.
But early season October groomed skiing, while it does occur, is usually reserved for places like Fairbanks and West Yellowstone. Autumn 2012, however, brought such a significant late-October storm, it sent skiers around the region scurrying through the dust of their garages to find their sliding gear. Just a couple of days after a weekend of shorts and t-shirts, over a foot of snow fell in the higher elevations of the Sierra.
The site of next Spring’s Super Tour Finals Competition, Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area, began grooming earlier than at any time in its 27-year history. Not enough snow to send out the big machines, but the use of a new snowmobile-equipped roller and comb system put down almost 10 kilometers of grooming in the Home Range area of the resort.
And it’s still snowing, with even a bit more forecasted for the next couple of days and possibly more next week. While this doesn’t assure a smooth and continuous transition to winter, it certainly makes for some serious excitement (and fun) on the trails around Truckee and Lake Tahoe. Other local XC ski resorts such as Auburn Ski Club and Royal Gorge also experienced significant early snowfall.
Tahoe Donner Cross Country will be one of the main hosts of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association 2013 SuperTour Finals and Distance National Championships, scheduled for April 2nd through April 11th, 2013.
October 19, 2012 – Dario Cologna (SUI) was recently named Nordic Ski King of 2011/12 and awarded with the corresponding trophy in Val Müstair, Switzerland.
October 19, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – Canmore Nordic Ski Club is having its annual Ski Swap on October 26 and 27.The Ski Swap is being held at the Canmore Crossing this year, 1160 Railway Avenue, in the old Brick store between Sobeys and Safeway.
Early-Bird Entrancefee is $10 and will start at at 8:30am on Saturday for the first 100 people. Purchase your early-bird tickets at the Canmore Crossing on Friday, October 26, 6 to 8pm
Consignee Drop Off: Friday, October 26, 6:00pm – 9:00pm, Canmore Crossing (between Safeway and Sobeys)
Sale: Saturday, October 27, 9:30am to noon. 8:30am for Early-Bird ticketholders (see above) Canmore Crossing (between Safeway and Sobeys)
* Cash or cheque only (be prepared to show identification)
Consignee Pick Up: Saturday, October 27, 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Note: As of 6:00pm on Saturday, unclaimed items are the property of Canmore Nordic Ski Club
October 19, 2012 (Predazzo, Italy) – With a strong summer of preparation behind, the U.S. Nordic Combined Ski Team has its sights set on the 2013 World Championships and the Olympics in Sochi just a year away. A talented squad of 10 athletes, including three newcomers, was officially named during a final pre-season tune-up camp on the World Championship jumps in Italy following a camp at the Center of Excellence in Utah. A-Teamers Billy Demong (Vermontville, NY), Todd Lodwick (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Johnny Spillane (Steamboat Springs, CO) together account for a dozen Olympic and World Championship medals, along with Bryan Fletcher’s (Steamboat Springs, CO) stunning season-ending victory in the King’s Cup at Holmenkollen in Norway.
Highlights
– The U.S. Nordic Combined Ski Team named 10 athletes to its 2012-13 squad led by Olympic medalists Billy Demong (Vermontville, NY), Todd Lodwick (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Johnny Spillane (Steamboat Springs, CO) and King’s Cup winner Bryan Fletcher (Steamboat Springs, CO).
– Together, Demong, Lodwick and Spillane account for a dozen Olympic and World Championship medals.
– Bryan Fletcher established himself as a major contender last season, steadily building up to a breakthrough win in the final World Cup at Holmenkollen, taking the prestigious King’s Cup.
– Three newcomers were added to the B Team including Adam Loomis (Eau Claire, WI), Erik Lynch (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Michael Ward (Aspen, CO).
– The FIS World Cup season opens Nov. 24-25 on the Olympic venue in Lillehammer, Norway.
– The FIS Nordic Ski World Championships return to Val di Fiemme, Italy Feb. 20-Mar. 3, the site of Spillane’s breakthrough World Championship gold 10 years ago.
– Five Team athletes are enrolled in the U.S. Ski Team’s partnership program with Westminster College in Salt Lake City including Brett Denney, Bryan Fletcher, Taylor Fletcher, Nick Hendrickson and Adam Loomis.
– Following a successful camp at the USSA Center of Excellence, Utah Olympic Park and Soldier Hollow in Utah, the Team was in Predazzo, Italy for a final tune-up on the World Championship jumps in Val di Fiemme.
Quotes Billy Demong, Olympic champion
This is a team with great depth – never in history have we had ten nordic combined guys who are so close. The first time trial of the year I was seventh but not even a minute back in a race 25 minutes long. We’ve had different guys take the lead over the course of the summer to push the team in training but especially Bryan (Fletcher) who has continued to be a yardstick on the jump hill, while his brother (Taylor Fletcher) is the toughest on the cross country side.
I am still following the roadmap I laid out after Vancouver. After a year almost off followed by a season of increased training and focus where I managed to get back on the podium, I am continuing to ramp it up mentally and physically.
I am certainly looking forward to World Championships this season. Val di Fiemme is a venue where I’ve had personal success and our team has made history with Johnny’s (Spillane) crown in 2003 and Todd and my one-two finish in 2010.
I feel that the team is much more competitive than in the past and looking forward to its continued growth and success. It’s exciting to see that our continued effort to work together is yielding amazing dividends and that making our world cup team is becoming an increasingly challenging endeavor.
Bryan Fletcher, Holmenkollen King’s Cup champion
Coming off last season with a win definitely kick started some momentum heading into training this summer. The most exciting thing is the momentum hasn’t worn off. Our team has picked up that momentum and is working hard to keep the ball rolling through the next season – hopefully helping all of us take that next step both individually and as a team.
This season is definitely important for many reasons, the most prominent reason being World Championships. Athletes particularly value this World Champs because it is the biggest event that precedes the Olympics. On the whole scale however this season is important because it’s a great chance to improve before the Olympics. There is a lot of experience that can be gained and a chance to put yourself in a great position results wise before the Olympic year.
Obviously a medal at World Championships would create some great momentum heading into next season. If nothing less this season signifies the countdown toward the Olympics, which I think every athlete gets a little giddy thinking about the next two years!
Dave Jarrett, Head Coach
Everyone has done a good job preparing for the season and we are psyched to start with strong A and B Teams. We have two important seasons coming up with World Championships and Olympics. We want to execute this year so that we have confidence going into the Olympic season.
The mix of youth and experience is good and the competition among teammates is making everyone better and keeping everyone honest. Bryan (Fletcher), Taylor (Fletcher), Todd (Lodwick), and Johnny (Spillane) have had a solid summer of training among the A-Team. Billy (Demong) is still working on equipment issues but we expect him to running on all cylinders soon. Nick Hendrickson, Adam Loomis and Michael Ward have taken a huge step this summer from the B-Team.
2013 U.S. Nordic Combined Ski Team
Name, Hometown, Club (Skis (jumping/cross country), Boots (jumping/cross country), Bindings, Eyewear, Poles) Date of Birth
* Indicates Olympian
**Indicates Westminster College student
A Team
– Billy Demong, Vermontville, NY, New York Ski Education Foundation (Fluege/Atomic, Rass/Atomic, Atomic, Uvex, Swix) 3/29/80 *
– Bryan Fletcher, Steamboat Springs, CO, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Elan/Madshus, Rass/Madshus, Rottefella, Uvex, Madshus) 6/27/86 **
– Taylor Fletcher, Steamboat Springs, CO, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Fluege/Atomic, Rass/Atomic, Atomic, Uvex/Rudy Project, Swix) 5/11/90 * **
– Todd Lodwick, Steamboat Springs, CO, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Elan/Madshus, Rass/Madshus, Madshus, TBD, Swix) 11/21/76 *
– Johnny Spillane, Steamboat Springs, CO, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Fluege/Atomic, Rass/Atomic, Atomic, Uvex, One Way) 11/24/80 *
B Team
– Brett Denney, Steamboat Springs, CO, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Elan/Madshus, Rass/Alpina, Rotefella, Uvex/Rudy Project, Swix) 2/26/90 **
– Nick Hendrickson, Park City, UT, Park City Nordic Ski Club (Elan/Madshus, Rass/Alpina, Rottefella, Uvex/Rudy Project, Swix) 6/20/91 **
– Adam Loomis, Eau Claire, WI, Eau Claire Flying Eagles Ski Club (Fluege/Madshus, Rass/Madshus, Rottefella, Uvex/Rudy Project, Madshus) **
– Erik Lynch, Steamboat Springs, UT, Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (Fischer/Madshus, Rass/Madshus, Rottefella, Uvex, Madshus)
– Michael Ward, Aspen, CO, Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club (Fischer/Madshus, Rass/Madshus, Rottefella, Uvex, Swix)
Coaching Staff
– Dave Jarrett, Head Coach
– Chris Gilbertson, World Cup Jumping Coach
– Greg Poirer, Continental Cup Coach/Development Coach
World Cup Service Team
– Andrej Jezeršek
– Matjaz Dobrovoljc
Official Nordic Combined Suppliers
– Uniforms
– Bjørn Dæhlie
October 18, 2012 – The FIS Final Inspection before the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Val di Fiemme was held on 15th October in Cavalese (ITA). Representatives from FIS, the Italian Winter Sports Association (FISI), the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and their host broadcaster RAI, as well as marketing partner Tridem Sportswere very optimistic when reviewing the preparation work that has been carried out by the local Organising Committee, which also includes representatives from each of the valley’s towns of the valley and region of Trentino.
At the conclusion of the presentations, FIS President Gian Franco Kasper summarised: “I am in particular very positively surprised about the amount of creative side events that are planned to promote the Championships and create a real Ski Festival for everyone who attends. Naturally, there is still some work to do, but preparations are well on track and less than 125 days ahead of the event, we can be confident that everything will be ready on time.”
Both venues in Lago di Tesero for the Cross-Country races and the Ski Jumping hills in Predazzo have been fully renewed in the past couple of years and they were already successfully tested at the beginning of 2012 with the Tour de Ski, Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined FIS World Cup competitions that confirmed the excellent work carried out from a technical, functional and structural perspective. The Tour de Ski 2013 event to be held in Val di Fiemme on 5th and 6th January 2013 will be the final test for the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships.
The official presentation on the current state of preparations by the Fiemme 2013 Organising Committee was followed by various on-site inspections and working group meetings in specific areas. Observers from Falun 2015 and Lahti 2015 also attended the final inspection as part of the FIS Transfer of Knowledge programme designed to exchange information and lessons between Organisers.
October 18, 2012 (Oberhofen, Germany) – The International Ski Federation (FIS) and Viessmann, a long-time supporter of winter sports, are pleased to announce a great expansion and continuation of their partnership in support of Nordic Skiing. Viessmann, one of the leading international manufacturers of heating systems, will become the Presenting Sponsor of all the FIS Nordic disciplines from the upcoming 2012/2013 season onwards.
As Presenting Sponsor, Viessmann will be partnering with the FIS World Cup series in Cross-Country Skiing, ladies’ and men’s Ski Jumping, and Nordic Combined. In addition, Viessmann has sealed its commitment to the FIS Nordic disciplines by entering into a multi-year relationship as Presenting Sponsor of the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, including the 2013, 2015 and 2017 editions in Val di Fiemme (ITA), Falun (SWE) and Lahti (FIN), respectively. The six-year extension of Viessmann’s dedication builds on nearly two decades of winter sports sponsoring and is well aligned with the company’s brand values of innovation, top quality, efficiency, sustainability and reliability.
“FIS is highly pleased to build on the partnership with Viessmann during the next six years,” commented FIS President Gian Franco Kasper. “Our organization puts great value on nurturing long-term relationships with partners and finding creative solutions to grow the sport. We are looking forward to joining forces with Viessmann to seek new, innovative ways to engage Nordic Skiing fans.”
Since the 1993/94 season, Viessmann has been known for its commitment to winter sports and has formed a strong partnership with several national associations and international sports federations, as well as with different World Cup series. In the 2002/2003 season, the company became a major sponsor of the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup series and two years later, its sponsorship was extended to the FIS Cross-Country World Cup series. With the launch of the ladies’ FIS Ski Jumping World Cup last year, Viessmann added the top level of ladies’ Ski Jumping competitions to its portfolio.
The multi-discipline, multi-year Viessmann engagement came together thanks to the great industry know-how and experience in Nordic Skiing provided by FIS Marketing AG, which is led by Christian Pirzer: “This long-term commitment is a milestone for Nordic Skiing and proof that the structure of FIS Marketing AG is able to develop successful partnerships which are ‘stronger and longer’ than anything else seen in this industry. We shall work hard to deliver the return for Viessmann’s investment and thank them for their trust.”
Recently appointed FIS Marketing AG Nordic Director Jürg Capol will lead the Viessmann sponsorship implementation and bring his extensive experience to the relationship. Jürg Capol served as the FIS Cross-Country Race Director for nine years and led, among other new ideas, the development of the highly successful FIS Tour de Ski multi-stage competition series which Viessmann has also supported from its launch.
October 17, 2012 (Oro, ON) – The Hardwood Ski and Bike Annual Ski Swap is one of the largest cross country ski swaps around offering a great opportunity to find just the right equipment for you for the coming season. The swap includes new and used cross country equipment, snowshoes, poles and more.
This is a chance for people to sell their old equipment at the swap and make a few dollars to put toward upgrading equipment. This is a great place to find ski equipment for your kids for this winter.
The Retail Shop will be showing the newest cross country gear and clothing with an added bonus – Save the Tax on purchases in the retail shop this weekend.
The Open House is a chance to learn more about the various programs, clinics, events and races taking place at Hardwood this winter.
WHERE: Hardwood Ski and Bike, 402 W Old Barrie Rd, Oro Station, Ontario WHEN: October 20 and 21, 2012. Saturday from 9 to 5 and Sunday 9 to 1
October 12, 2012 – Join the celebrations for the 10th Anniversary of the Vermont Ski Museum as the festivities go Nordic! Sunday, October 14, a panel of speakers will highlight the past, present and future of cross country ski areas, technology, coaching, and youth development. Sunday, October 21 will see the Paul Robbins Ski Journalism Award presented to Linda Adams and Sporty Bell.
—————————— October 14 – Nordic Ski Evolution/Revolution
Salute the New Cool of Nordic Skiing: Rally with Today’s Superstars and Past Heroes
Visit the newly redesigned long term exhibits on the Museum’s second floor, including Nordic Ski Evolution/Revolution.
The afternoon will consist of three panels that highlight the past, present and future of cross country ski areas, technology, coaching, and youth development. Panels begin at 1 with cross country ski areas, 2:30-3:45 will be technique and coaching, and 3:45-5pm will be equipment. A cash bar with buffet dinner will follow. At 7:30, the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum Nordic Hall of Fame Inductees will be available for questions and answers.
Panelists include Johannes von Trapp, Tony Clark, Joe Pete Wilson, Charlie Yerrick,
Judy Geer and Dick Dreissigacker (Craftsbury), Mike Hussey (Rikert), Jere Linehan (Strafford), Charlie Yerrick (Trapp), Bob Gray, John Tidd (EPSTI/PSIA), Janice Fleetwood Bean (EPSTI/PSIA), Bob Gray, John Tidd (EPSTI/PSIA), Janice Fleetwood Bean (EPSTI/PSIA), Carol Van Dyke (Bill Koch League/Stowe Nordic Outing Club), Justin Beckwith (Green Mountain Valley School), Pepa Miloucheva (Director of Competitive Skiing at Craftsbury), Zack Caldwell, Graham Lonetto (Edgewise), Tim Reynolds (Craftsbury), Trina Hosmer, Peter Graves, Jan Reynolds, Murray Banks and more….
Tickets are $15 for dinner, $5 for any of the panel discussions and includes admission to the Museum
Thank you to our sponsors Stowe Nordic Outing Club, The Cushman Design Group, Dave and Trina Hosmer, Ole’s Cross Country Ski Area.
—————————— October 21 – Paul Robbins Journalism Award
The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum cordially invites you to the Induction Ceremony and Dinner in celebration of
– Charles Minot Dole (1899-1976)
– D. Trowbridge Elliman
– Leslie Thompson Hall
– Tiger Shaw
Paul Robbins Ski Journalism Award presented to Linda Adams and Sporty Bell
Trapp Family Lodge Event Tent
– 4:30pm – Welcome reception
– 5:00-6:00pm – Induction Ceremony
– 6:30pm – Buffet dinner and music by Hall of Fame member Larry Damon and his band Z-Jaz
For complete biographical information, click HERE.
Tickets $60 members, $85 non-members
To purchase tickets, click HERE. For more details, click HERE.
For more information, contact Meredith Scott, Director/Curator, mscott@vtssm.com, 802.253.9911.
—————————— Support the Museum
– Buy a raffle ticket.
– Renew or become a member.
– Make a donation.
More than $35,000 has been raised towards our $50,000 goal. Help us complete the 10th anniversary campaign.
Raffle tickets:
1. One-night stay in Hotel Jay Studio for four people, lift tickets and water park use included.
2. Two, four-day, adult, non-holiday, lift tickets to Stowe Mountain Resort with a guided tour by Historian Brian Lindner.
3. Scott Mega Dozer powder skis (185cm) with Marker Griffon bindings.
4. Burton set up: Custom Board, Cartel Bindings and Hail Boots (can be exchanged at the Burton Flagship Store for sizing regardless of men’s or women’s).
5. Two-night stay at the Trapp Family Lodge with trail use included.
Click here to buy tickets. $25 each or 5 for $100. You can pick the item you want to win.
Membership: Click the box for more details. 100% of membership income supports our exhibits and programs.
Donations: Click here for our 10th anniversary budget. We are almost there!
See the new exhibit One Track Mind: A Celebration of Snowboarding from Burton’s Archives.
More on the 10th Anniversary Celebrations and the museum HERE.
October 05, 2012 – Exciting news, I am starting my own xc ski camps. The plan is (as always), incredible xc skiing, the best coaches, the best atmosphere, the most fun and of course YOU!
The Coaching line up:
Dr. Mike Mandli, Munro Duncan AKA (Munny),Dr. Joe Bouscaren, Jennifer Tabbernor, Joanne, Pat Van Mullem and I will work to make your xc skiing more efficient and more fun.
Sun Peaks Resort
– November 26-30 – Monday to Friday Camp
– December 1 & 2 – Weekend Camp
Beautifully groomed Nordic trails are at the door step, cozy village with accommodation, restaurants, spa and so much more.
Online registration HERE.
Visit the Sun Peaks website HERE.
Delta Sun Peaks
The flag ship hotel at Sun Peaks Resort. Delta Sun Peaks Resort is a full service, luxury hotel where guests have exclusive use to a health club, featuring three outdoor hot tubs, an indoor entrance to a heated outdoor swimming pool, sauna, and a well equipped gym.
Whistler Olympic Park
– December 3-7 – Monday to Friday Camp
– December 8 & 9 – Weekend Camp
Whistler Olympic Park was built at a cost of $119.7 million to stage the Nordic ski disciplines of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Cross-country skiing, biathlon, ski jumping and nordic combined events and training were held exclusively at Whistler Olympic Park.
With 90 kms of expertly groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, Whistler Olympic Park has it all.
Online registration HERE.
Visit the Whistler Olympic Park website HERE.
Whistler Athletes Centre
The energy is amazing at the Whistler Athletes Centre, stay where the Olympians lived during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games!
I have blocked rooms in the athletes lodge under “Glenn Bond Cross Country Ski Camps”.
Rates:
– $55.00 for a single room – one bed
– $80.00 for a double room – two beds
– Participants will need to plan their own transportation to and from Whistler Olympic Park.
October 02, 2012 (Boulder, CO) – German ski wax manufacturer Holmenkol AG has announced the completed sale of the company to Sporto-med GmbH, a family-owned German business specializing in physiotherapy, sports medicine and health. A new company, Holmenkol GmbH, has been formed as a subsidiary of Sporto-med and will continue the operations of Holmenkol AG. Business at Holmenkol continues as normal and the season’s first shipment of wax and tools has already arrived at Holmenkol’s US distributor. The sale was completed in early September and marked the company’s exit from insolvency proceedings.
Skiers in the United States will notice no difference in the lineup or quality of Holmenkol waxes and tools for the 2012-2013 season and should expect to see improvements and new products in years to come. “In the future too, Holmenkol will retain focus on the World Racing Team in Nordic Skiing and Alpine Skiing,” says Dr. Oliver Temme, chemist and director of Sporto-med GmbH’s research and development department since 2004. “Continuing development of waxes for racing skis has a high priority for us.”
Holmenkol’s production facility in Heimerdingen, Germany and team of employees remain unchanged during the transition and will continue to produce highly-innovative chemical surface systems for skis and snowboards as well as textiles.
August 19, 2012 – Nordic Group International has posted a wonderful video that was shown at John Frado’s Last Hurrah celebration on July 30. John had more than 30 years of experience in recreation planning, with special expertise in multi-use trail and facility design and construction.
As a recreation planner for Northeast Utilities, he designed and operated the award-winning trail system and environmental education center at Northfield Mountain, Massachusetts. Since joining Nordic Group International in 1985, he had been involved with more than 120 trail, resort, and park projects in the U.S. and Canada. His work at Great Glen Trails in New Hampshire won international acclaim for a state-of-the-art trail lodge and trail system.
John was a Founder and Director Emeritus of Cross Country Ski Areas Association and was instrumental in developing the National Ski Patrol’s Nordic Division.
Thank you Hilary for creating the video. John would’ve loved it!
August 17, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – 2013 CCC race license applications are now available online or by mail. You must have a current race license or a Supporting Member Day license to compete in CCC sanctioned events. To apply for your 2013 CCC race license online, click HERE or by mail, click HERE.
Note: You must be a member of a registered CCC club before your license application will be processed.
FIS Race License – It is time to renew or apply for your 2013 FIS Race License
To apply for a FIS race license, please complete the CCC FIS Race License Application and the FIS Athlete Declaration Form available HERE, and forward it by mail or fax, together with your cheque, VISA or MasterCard number to the Cross Country Canada National Office. Don’t forget to included the expiry date and 3 digit card verification number (on back of the card).
By mail or in person: Cross Country Canada, 100 – 1995 Olympic Way, Canmore, AB T1W 2T6
By Fax: (403) 678-3885
The cost is $45.00 (non-refundable) and the deadline to submit the FIS License application form is January 1st, 2013.
This deadline is very important. Any FIS license applications received after January 1st, 2013 will be processed at a cost of $100.00. If you require points to be added retroactively, this will cost you another $100.00.
Note: Any Junior skier who may make the criteria for a national team or international tours is encouraged to purchase a FIS licence prior to the ski season as it will be needed for FIS point calculations.
Your FIS license will not be processed until your CCC license is renewed or bought for the 2013 season.
You must include your CCC and FIS license numbers when registering for events to have your results eligible for points. A fee is required to retroactively add license numbers to “Official” result lists.
International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Race License
IPC race licenses are necessary for Para-Nordic athletes and guides who wish to compete internationally in IPC sanctioned events (IPC World Cup, IPC World Championships or Paralympics).
To apply for an IPC license you must first have a CCC race license (see application requirements and process above).
The cost of an IPC race license is 60Euro (approx $85) and the application deadline is October 1st, 2012.
An IPC license can be purchased after the deadline but the price doubles to $120Euro (approx $170).
To begin the application process please complete the IPC Eligibility Code form HERE and then contact us at nsmith@cccski.com to complete the process.
August 17, 2012 – Skiers from around the world are converging on Falls Creek for the Kangaroo Hoppet, the opening event of the 2012/2013 Worldloppet season, which will be held on August 25. Good snowfalls last weekend topped up the snow base, and with 50km of trails available for training, early arrivals are enjoying excellent conditions.
With skiers in the seeded group from Russia, Canada, Sweden, Estonia, Switzerland and USA joining our best Australian skiers, we are expecting some exciting competition. Favourites in the men’s event are Russians Alexander Legkov and Ilya Chernousov who are making a four week training camp at Falls Creek, with Maria Graefnings (SWE), Marina Chernousova (RUS), and Brooke Darlington (CAN) the leading internationals in the women’s field. Top seeded Australians are Callum Watson, Alex Almoukov, Esther Bottomley and Aimee Watson.
As in all Worldloppet races, the event is not just for the elite. Most important are the citizen skiers, many of whom are taking on the challenge of becoming a Worldloppet Master. Skiers from twenty five other lands will join Australians at the start, including Norwegian sit skier and Worldloppet Master Ole Herman Ronnevig making his first trip to Australia.
August 16, 2012 (Davos, Switzerland) – The defending FIS Tour de Ski Champion and FIS Cross-Country World Cup winner is getting ready for the coming season at home, in Switzerland. After a few days at his home place Davos, Cologna started a high altitude training block in Engadin and Flüelapass. “I spent a great week with Curdin in Engadin. We trained together very well and he showed me some great tours in his home area,” Dario Cologna wrote on his website.
After the week in Engadin Cologna returned back to Davos “I am sleeping at Flüelapass in 2382 m but mainly do the training down in the valley in Davos. Together with Toni Livers we will carry out running tours at the Flüellapass,” Cologna adds.
Cologna’s training program is full packed for the rest of the month. “On Friday we are having an Odlo bike tour. On Sunday I am taking part in the roller skiing competition in San Bernardino. At the end of the month we are travelling to Oberhof where we will be training again on snow,” Dario Cologna revealed plans for August.
July 25, 2012 (Coon Valley, WI) – Coming off a very busy 2011/12 winter season, Mt. Borah Nordic has put the finishing touches on their upcoming season preparations by inking partnership agreements with some of the top Nordic programs in the US and Canada. In addition to working with Maine Winter Sports Center, Rocky Mountain Racers, Far West Nordic and Vail Ski and Snowboard Academy, Mt. Borah has also partnered with the University of Colorado (Nordic / Alpine) and Northern Michigan University. These programs will compete and showcase the latest Mt. Borah Pro XC apparel.
Besides working with some of the top-tier programs in North America, Mt. Borah has been busy making modifications to its existing XC product line. “We have really focused on improving our patterns and utilizing some exciting new fabrics for the 2012/13 line. The fit, form and function of nearly all the XC products has been greatly enhanced, especially compared to the 2011/12 line, all while keeping price points as competitive as ever,” said Chris Jackson, company owner.
Further news includes the recent development of a high-end XC apparel line dubbed OTW or Out to Win. The OTW line is expected to release as early as this November. “We couldn’t be more excited about the upcoming season,” said John Dyste, Mt. Borah’s Winter Sports Sales Manager. “Mt Borah appreciates just how competitive the custom team market is, which is why we continually work on improving both our products and our production facility. Our customers realize how important it is to work with a company which produces all of its apparel in-house, achieves the colors and graphics right the first time, and offers 100 percent on-time delivery,” added Dyste. To learn more about Mt. Borah, or to view their entire line of custom XC ski apparel, please visit www.mtborah.com or call 800-354-2825, M-F, 9-5 CST.
July 24, 2012 (Sun Valley, ID) – The National Nordic Foundation will invest $6,000 in two forthcoming Cross-Country Pillar Projects in its summer round of XC 2012/2013 funding. The primary goal of these USST International Development camps in Austria, Germany, and Sweden is to get the athletes on snow midway through the preparation period, and most goals will be technique-based. The National Nordic Foundation’s investment will offset some athlete’s travel expenses thereby reducing the personal cost for many of the athletes. Primary funding for the camps will come from USST with a significant additional investment to the men’s camp from the Oregon Nordic Ski Foundation. These strategic investments are made to Support Tomorrow’s Stars Today.
Men’s Camp: July 28-Aug 3 Ramsau/Dachstein, Austria, Aug 3-9 Oberhof, Germany
The men’s National Team is looking forward to the upcoming camp in Ramsau am Dachstein, Austria and Oberhof, Germany. Ramsau and Oberhof are two of the best summer cross-country ski training venues in central Europe. Both venues provide excellent skiing, as well as world-class rollerskiing and dry-land training opportunities. It has been many years since the USST has been in Ramsau for a summer camp and we are looking forward to being back in a place that is already one of our winter homes. This will be our first summer camp in Oberhof, a venue that offers a rollerski track over 10 kilometers in length as well as the ski tunnel. The primary goal of our camp is to get the men back on snow midway through the preparation period, and most goals will be technique-based. We also gain a unique opportunity to test new equipment directly from the European factories. This camp would not be possible without the generosity of the Oregon Nordic Ski Foundation and the National Nordic Foundation. We are grateful for the support of both of these great Nordic organizations; they have made this camp a reality.
Women’s Camp: August 3-16 Torsby & Salen Sweden The women’s National Team is preparing for its third of five preparation period camps – this time to Sweden. The team will spend its first three days training in Torsby to kick off the camp. During this time we will test equipment on snow in the tunnel with ski industry representatives. We’ll then pack up and meet the Swedish National Team women in Salen for five days of dry land. For the final five days of the camp we’ll head back to Torsby’s ski tunnel with the Swedes. An important national strategy for this group is international partnerships. We’ve made significant progress with Canada in two years and have felt positive benefits on a number of levels. These partnerships naturally inject change into our program without drastically changing our direction. The excitement of new faces and training methods is motivating. We have more fun this way, and we train harder and better. If you want to see a hardcore interval session like never before just put two national teams together and stand back. Our team depends on a deep network of support and NNF is at its center.
May 14, 2012 – Today we are introducing you another candidate to host FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 2017 – Zakopane, Poland. Find out more about this potential host venue in the Q&A below.
Q: Why is Zakopane a candidate to host 2017 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships? How many times have you run your bid?
Zakopane is the cradle of Polish skiing, which traditions go as far back as to over 120 years. Zakopane organized FIS World Championships three times (1929, 1939, 1962), Winter Universiade three times (1956, 1993, 2001), World and European Biathlon Championships, Biathlon World Juniors Championships, Speed Skating World Juniors Championships and World Cup, FIS European Cup in Womens’ Slalom, Ski Jumping World Cup (several times), Nordic Combined, Cross-Country and Slalom, Ski Jumping Continental Cups, Ski Jumping Summer Grand Prix, FIS World Junior Championships in Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined. International competitions of various level are held here almost every year.
It is the fourth time that Zakopane, together with Polish Ski Federation and Tatra Ski Association, have begun making efforts to be granted the right to organize FIS Nordic World Championships in 2017.
Q: What makes you different from the other candidates?
The sports events, which have been hosted in Zakopane so far, have given a completely new quality to the concept of the atmosphere. Ski fans, enthusiasm and their admiration of the best athletes from all over the world is a unique phenomenon, which has developed in Zakopane during Ski Jumping World Cups and is always present at all the events organized at the foot of Mountain. It will be the same during the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships Zakopane 2017.
Q: What is the core of your bid? What would the Champs at your venue be like and what would people remember in 2027 about them?
Organization of big international winter sports events has had significant influence on the city development. Many new sports venues have been built, the accommodation and catering infrastructure has been developed, water-sewage system has been improved, new streets, roads and parking places have been built. Also tourism has greatly developed.
Zakopane has continuously aspired to be counted among the group of cities organizing world sports events. The crowning achievement of this aspiration was the submission of the city’s candidature for the organization of Winter Olympic Games in 2006 and FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in 2011, 2013 and 2015.
Zakopane is also a significant center of culture – it is the cradle of interwar art bohemians. Outstanding musicians, writers and artists have settled and created here for years.
February 28, 2012 – The Finnish Nordic Sports brand ONE WAY and the French Ski Federation (FFS) began their successful cooperation for the exclusive supply of textiles and footwear for the Nordic Ski Teams two years ago. The new designs and technical wear for the team have created a lot of attention for the French Nordic Teams.
Due to the successful and good cooperation, both parties agreed to extend the cooperation in a long term contract until 2018.
ONE WAY will enlarge their development in supporting the French Nordic Ski Team with the newest standard and innovations for racing apparel and footwear.
The French Nordic team is today one of the most successful ski nation with the leader in the IBU Biathlon WC Martin Fourcade, the leader in the Nordic Combined WC Lamy Chapuis and many other athletes in the top ten rankings for all Nordic disciplines.
The French national team with their athletes will be core program of the ONE WAY marketing program.
We are proud being partner of one of the most successful and exciting Nordic Ski Team in the World.
February 16, 2012 (Steamboat Springs, CO) – Sven Wiik, a pioneer of “Ski Town USA’s” booming Nordic skiing scene, recently celebrated his 91st birthday and will mark the occasion with an open house at the Steamboat Ski Touring Center on Feb. 26.
Wiik immigrated to the US from Sweden in 1949 and went on to become the USST’s Olympic Nordic Coach. He and his family later built a Scandinavian Lodge, then called the Mount Werner Training Center, now named the Steamboat Ski Touring Center. The center is home to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC), which has developed many Olympic skiers over its long history, including Vancouver 2010 Nordic Combined medalists Todd Lodwick and Johnny Spillane, who trained with the club in their youth. Steamboat has sent more skiers to the US Ski Team than any place else in the country and seventy-nine Olympians have accounted for 135 Olympic appearances
In 2003, Spillane won Nordic-combined 7.5km gold in Val di Fiemme, Italy, becoming the first American athlete to win a gold medal at the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. In 2009 at the Nordic Worlds in Liberec, CZE, Lodwick won two NC golds. Then at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games, Spillane won the U.S.A.’s first Olympic NC medal, winning silver in the individual 10K/Normal Hill missing out on the gold medal by 4/100ths of a second, the closest margin in Olympic history in that event. Lodwick, Spillane, Billy Demong and Brett Camerota won their first Olympic team medal, a silver. Spillane took home his third Olympic silver medal in the 10K/Large Hill event, while Demong won the gold in the same event.
Over one thousand athletes are currently members of the SSWC, training in five alpine and nordic disciplines. So when Colorado Springs and the US winter sports community celebrates Wiik’s this month, they also celebrate a legacy of athletic excellence he helped create.
Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC) is featured in SkiTrax’s Feb/Mar 2012 issue now on sale – for more info on the Steamboat click HERE.
January 24, 2012 (Rumford, ME) – The EISA season kicked off with the Bates Carnival from Jan. 20-21. The alpine races were contested at Sunday River in Newry, Maine, while the Nordic events were held at Black Mountain in Rumford, Maine.
Day 1
EISA schools patiently awaited the start of Carnival races over the past few weeks. When racing finally kicked off today (Jan. 20) with the Bates College Carnival at Sunday River and Black Mountain in Maine, the University of Vermont could not be thwarted.
On the opening day of the Bates Carnival, Vermont didn’t just fire the missiles; they launched the nukes. Of a total twelve podium spots up for grabs, Catamount racers locked up eight and scored a head-turning 531 points.
Lucy Garrec (UVM) won the women’s 5km freestyle race and was joined on the podium by teammate Caitlin Patterson. It was Garrec’s first collegiate freestyle victory, and after the race she noted, “I felt like the [5km freestyle] course suited me and allowed me to be light and quick.” Sophie Caldwell of Dartmouth finished third. The Bates women made an impressive move into third place with solid results from Beth Taylor, sixth, and Hallie Grossman, eleventh.
The Big Green retaliated in the men’s 10km freestyle race when Sam Tarling took second, Eric Packer third, and Gordon Vermeer fourth for Dartmouth. Race winner Patrick Johnson has returned to his Middlebury team with evidenced strength this season, and Vermont’s Franz Bernstein found the podium in third.
Day 2
Led by a second alpine podium sweep in the men’s races on Saturday (Jan. 21), the University of Vermont extended its convincing lead to take a noteworthy win at the Bates Carnival. The Catamounts once again broke the 1000-point mark, tallying 1004 total points over runner-up Dartmouth who posted 837. Middlebury was third with 699.
Two areas of weakness for the Catamounts were capitalized upon by other teams. In the men’s 10k classic at Black Mountain, Eric Packer of Dartmouth timed his decisive break perfectly in the final kilometer to secure the victory. He noted that his coach’s specific training plan leading into the season was beneficial, “Ruff [Patterson] frequently had us do head-to-head intervals to mimic the chaos of mass start racing, and that type of workout really paid off today in the hectic, short distance mass start.” He was flanked on the podium by Vermont’s Franz Bernstein in second and Middlebury standout Patrick Johnson in third.
The women’s 10k classic leader board developed predictably with UVM and Dartmouth duking it out in alternating fashion. Vermont’s Caitlin Patterson returned to her familiar spot in the winner’s column while fellow Catamounts Amy Glen and Lucy Garrec finished second and fourth, respectively. Dartmouth’s Sophie Caldwell snagged third and the Big Green placed its other two scoring racers, Anne Hart and Isabel Caldwell, well inside the top 10.
EISA action continues Jan. 27-28 with the University of New Hampshire Carnival at Attitash Mountain Resort and the Jackson XC Center.
Final team scores at the conclusion of the Bates Carnival:
University of Vermont – 1004
Dartmouth College – 837
Middlebury College – 699
Results HERE.
Full breakdown of team scores available HERE.
December 20, 2011 (Crescent Lake, OR) – Registration for the Crescent Lake Challenge freestyle ski race and citizen tour, set for Sunday, January 15, 2012, is now open. The event, which takes place on a 22km course on the groomed trails and rolling hills around scenic Crescent Lake, Oregon, in the central Cascades is popular, and due to limited space in the lodge for the free hot lunch, entries are limited to 120 skiers.
Organizers are adding a classic track set (conditions permitting). All levels of skiers are welcome but be prepared to ski 14 miles.
December 19, 2011 (Sjusjoen, Norway) – Canada’s Brian McKeever and Erik Carleton teamed up to win their first-ever IPC World Cup race together in a 10-kilometre classic-ski race in Sjusjoen Norway on Sunday.
The childhood ski friends growing up in Calgary, who won three silver medals in as many races this week, finally climbed onto the top step of the podium together after clocking the fastest time of the day at 27:38.2 in the men’s visually impaired category.
“We have been doing a lot of skate racing so it was nice to change the technique and get this one,” said the 32-year-old McKeever. “I think we still have a little advantage over some of the guys in classic racing. The key to winning is to exploit your strengths and others weaknesses and we did that today.”
The track to the podium was anything but easy for the Canadian duo. Battling fatigue from a long period of racing in Europe and blowing conditions, McKeever relied heavily on the 33-year-old Carleton to find the quickest line to the finish.
“Erik pulled really hard at the front in some pretty strong headwinds,” said McKeever. “He worked hard crossing between tracks to find the fastest line and did an awesome job for me today.”
The Canadians were sandwiched on the podium by two Russian teams. Nikolay Polukhin and Andrey Tokarev skied to the silver medal at 28:50.6, while Stanislav Chokhlaev and Maksim Pirogov were third with a time of 29:39.9.
McKeever has become of the most accomplished para-nordic skiers in the world since being diagnosed with Stargaards disease in 1998. Brian, along with his longtime guide and brother Robin, has won 10 Paralympic medals including seven gold in his three trips to the Paralympics.
Brian leaned on Carleton to guide him to three victories at the 2011 IPC World Championships when Robin was sidelined with an ACL injury last year. A 1998 Olympian, Robin is now the head coach of the Canadian Para-Nordic Team. Regardless of the guide, the younger McKeever has worked tirelessly to win everything on the table in para-nordic skiing.
“We have trained more than 800 hours this year which is right up there with able-bodied skiers,” said McKeever. “Winning isn’t easy as we saw this week (finishing second three times in a row) so we have to keep working hard because it hasn’t been enough so far.”
Two other Canadians also suited up on Sunday. Colette Bourgonje, of Saskatoon, finished seventh in the women’s five-kilometre sit-ski race. Mark Arendz, of Springton, P.E.I., who won a gold, silver and bronze medal in biathlon races this week, finished 11th in the men’s 10-kilometre standing class.
November 21, 2011 (Caribou, ME) – The Maine Winter Sports Center is pleased to host the 10th Mountain Division Junior Nordic and Junior Biathlon Championships in 2012. These events serve as Maine’s state-wide junior championships and offer Maine’s best young cross-country skiers and biathletes the opportunity to show their skills at the highest level of junior racing. For the 2012 season, the 10th Mountain Division Championships have been slated for Rumford and Fort Kent, Maine.
The Chisholm Ski Club will host the 10th Mountain Division Nordic Championships in conjunction with the USSA Cross-Country Skiing Championship junior 10km set for January 6th, at Black Mountain in Rumford, Maine. In the men’s division, look for Tom Rabon (Burke Mountain Academy) and Nick Michaud (Bates College) to battle it out for the title of Maine’s fastest junior man. If either should falter, Cam Reagan (Bates College) will be waiting. On the women’s side, Rachel Hall (Middlebury College) is the one to beat. Shelby Aseltine (Bowdoin College) should offer challenge.
The 10th Mountain Division Biathlon Championship will be run in conjunction with the January 21st Biathlon NorAm competitions hosted by the 10th Mountain Center in Fort Kent, Maine. The field is open on both the men’s and women’s side in this competition as a young crew of biathletes begins to grow. Chester Jacobs (Yarmouth) has the most experience on the men’s side, but Presque Isle natives Jesse and Jon Rochester will be hunting their first victory. The women’s field is crowded with young talent: Tara Humphries (Yarmouth), Danni Anderson (Mapleton), Emelie and Zoe Chace-Donahue (Freeport), and Anna Soderberg (Caribou) may all stake their claim to the title.
In hosting these championships for our young nordic athletes, the Maine Winter Sports Center looks to honor the role that the 10th Mountain Division played in not only helping to win the second world war, but also helping to found the modern ski industry in the United States. For more information, please contact the Maine Winter Sports Center at (207) 492-1442.
November 14, 2011 (Cable, WI) – The United States Paralympics, a division of the United States Olympic Committee, will be hosting the International Paralympic World Cup Nordic Ski series at Telemark Resort in Cable, WI. The week long event will be held from January 23-30.
This venue will host over one hundred athletes from over a dozen nations who will compete in biathlon and Nordic ski racing. We hope to have you experience the opportunity to be a volunteer for one day or one week and be a part of this historic event!
Provided are links to the event and volunteer opportunities! Please feel free to contact John Brown at john.brown@cxcskiing.org for additional information!
October 27, 2011 – The snow has finally fallen enough to accumulate some ski trails up at Hatchers Pass. Lots of pictures and stories have been circulating around already, so I think the word is out that the Alaskan Crew got to ski on October 20th!! Thats so early. What this means is I skied every month of the year this year, besides one! So I skied on snow 11 months of the training year… how many racers can say that???
The skiing has been great. Extra blue, packed tracks, and blue bird cold days!! The APU crew headed up last thursday for a distance ski, and by the following day I was sore. It’s funny how rollerskiing never seems to train the exact same muscles, so you are sore the first ski of the season, regardless. We then skied a second time on saturday… so by the end of the three hour ski, I was cooked. I have to say, this is the main reason that I love training in Alaska. The opportunity to be on snow as much as we are I see as a huge benefit. By getting that early “snow shape” back together in October, you can sometimes jump start the engine for the early racing season.
Speaking of early racing season, I will be on a different path this fall period. For the first time, I will be racing on the World Cup Circuit for Period 1 along with a group of 4 other girls. This has been super exciting news for me, and I have to say, I have been counting down the days for the “2012” experience to begin! The greatest thing about this year is it is the year to experiment and try new things. Because there are no main Championships of the year, I can set my own expectations and goals. Having never raced much in early season, nor raced much on the World Cup Circuit, nor left my home from November 6th until the end of March…… I will be switching things up quite a bit.
Last year I had a small introduction into this top level of racing, and ever since I have been working hard to jump into that category. This fall will be a great opportunity for me to open my eyes wide, learn some new skills and tricks, and have a great time skiing along with the best skiers in the world.
My schedule starts with me Leaving November 6th for Beitostoelen, Norway and follows:
– November 11-13, FIS Races in Beitostoelen
– November 19-20, World Cup in Beito
– November 25-27, World Cup Kuusamo, Finland
– December 3-4, World Cup downtown Dusseldorf, Germany
– December 10-11, World Cup Davos, Switzerland
Following that, December 12th I will fly back to Washington for a short break in Washington before Nationals, early January in Rumford Maine.
Unfortunately this opportunity has come with a price. Being named to the US SKi Team this last year has provided me with the opportunities and the steps at reaching this next level, but it has also provided me with some responsibility for completing these steps. Having major budget cuts this year resulted in the funding being cut for all B-Team level athletes for this top level of competition. What this means for me is that the spot is available for me, but I must find my own funding to get there.
I am not sure on my definite plans for the entire year, but I am going to guess the financial need will remain at the same level through Period 2 as well as Period 3. What it looks like for this first period of racing can be broken down easily between room and board as well as plane tickets to and from Europe, and between race venues. This comes to a total around $8000.
Being an athlete similar to every other nordic athlete in the country, this is not the kind of money we can ask our parents for, or we can raise on a side job. This is the kind of financial support we must find in our supporters and followers. This is also not only a problem for me, but every other talented young athlete in this country that is ready to make another step in their development. It starts at the 16 year old level skier who just made Scando Trips, and continues through the World Juniors level, affecting everyone all the way up to the top level of World Cup Racing.
The Nordic community has been working hard recently to make these unrealistic financial expectations more realistic. With the new push at the National Nordic Foundation level, supporters are beginning to see the sad truth of the financial demands affecting the opportunities for a new level of talent our country is now experiencing. This is just the beginning, but it is a step forward.
Which brings me to my final point. I have a long year in front of me, and it could cost me around $30,000 to race at this level throughout the season. If you would like to support either myself, or the other athletes in getting there; there are several options. As with everything, even the smallest amount makes a difference and builds towards that end goal. Just like us athletes; it wasn’t the 4-hour ski we did that made us fast, but it was the culmination of all those 1 hr., 2hr. and 3hr. workouts that made us great. So please know that every effort is greatly appreciated!
Your options for supporting our skiing goals for the year are:
1) Methow Valley Ski Education Foundation- The community in the Methow has been extremely helpful and supportive towards trying to help make this next step available. The team has created an Elite Opportunity Fund with 501(c)(3) status. Money can be donated to help support the athletes of the Methow participating in international level competition. If you would like to send a tax-deductible donation towards me, or the athletes of the Methow Valley, send to:
MVNSEF Elite Opportunity Fund
PO Box 1063
Winthrop, WA 98862
3) Donations towards the National Nordic Foundation, which is a non-profit organization aimed at supporting the nordic athletes of the US. They are recently doing The Drive for 25, which will include a small support of a large spectrum of supporters. Check out this site to get an idea of what we do and learn how to help HERE.
4) Support through the APU Ski Club
There are many ways to help out and support including you standing on the side of the trail cheering and screaming. It all counts, and it all keeps us going. So keep it up, and get ready…. race season is coming!!! Thanks to everyone that has helped so far, and that may help in the future! You guys are truly making it possible!
October 19, 2011 (Livigno, Italy) – Top Swedish sprinter Emil Joenssen was forced to leave team camp in Livigno, Italy early when he sustained a thigh injury during training. “I was on the camp in the Italian Livigno and had a great time with the rest of the team and the training was perfect! Then, on Friday afternoon we were doing a special training in order to get in more “into it”. That is, you start with an easy pace and then you increase the speed up to maximum speed. And during my second round the back of my thigh cramps and I fall to the ground and simply felt something was not right,” Emil Joensson explained on his website.
Emil Joensson returned quickly to Sweden and underwent in Oestersund several medical check ups including a MRI that revealed the cause of an injury. “As it turned out, the injury was smaller than what we had thought and it is a small simple burst within the back of the thigh up towards the bum. An incredible small little bugger which isn’t at all as serious but you don’t want to go on and burden it too fast due to the risk to turn it into a more severe injury,” Joensson reveals.
Expected recovery time remains unknown. “It will take weeks before I am fully back in action,” Joensson confirms. With the season kick off round the corner the Small Crystal Globe winner is not laying down his arms. “I have to adjust my training not to put on myself inappropriate load. So it is looking like a fun break in training having the chance to try out some new training variations,” Joensson claims.
